Search Results (162)

Mango seed kernels, an underutilized by-product of the mango pulping industries, are a rich supplier of metabolites, specifically phenolic and flavonoid compounds. These compounds have potential health benefits. The present study aims to optimize the solvent-assisted conditions for polyphenol extraction from mango seed kernels by using the Box–Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Moreover, the effect of the solvent-to-solid ratio (5:1 to 25:1, mL/g), extraction temperature (30–70 °C), and extraction time (60–120 min) on the polyphenol yield was investigated. The optimal conditions of a solvent-to-solid ratio of 12 (mL/g), extraction temperature of 53 °C, and extraction time of 97 min showed the maximum yield of dried extract. In optimal conditions, the extract contained a total phenolic content of 110.02 ± 0.50 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g, total flavonoids of 24.58 ± 0.09 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g, 64.21 ± 0.12% inhibition of DPPH, and 53.25 ± 0.23% ABTS radical scavenging. Moreover, the extract at 500 mg/mL concentration showed the highest anti-bacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Gallic acid, mangiferin, rutin, ferulic acid, cinnamic acid, and quercetin were noted in mango seed kernel extract obtained at optimal extraction conditions. Overall, a rapid and optimal methodology is reported for extracting, identifying, and quantifying polyphenols from mango seed kernels. Full article

This study investigated the potential of scale-up mango leaf extract (MLE) as a treatment for diabetes, a global public health concern. MLE was prepared by boiling in water, yielding 12.07% (w/w), with a bioactive mangiferin content of 165.67 ± 10.88 μg/g in the crude powder. Mechanistically, MLE demonstrated a hypoglycemic effect by stimulating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion in NCI-H716 L-cells. This occurred through activation of the MAPK signaling pathway, evidenced by increased p-ERK1/2, p-p38, and p-c-Jun expression, and the Wnt signaling pathway, shown by increased β-catenin and decreased GSK-3β and Axin1 expression, consistent with molecular docking. In a type 2 diabetic rat model, MLE administration (40 mg/kg) significantly reduced metabolic parameters, including fasting blood glucose (FBG), body weight, cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TGs), and HbA1c. Notably, MLE lowered serum insulin and the HOMA-IR index, and reduced serum dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) levels, resulting in increased serum GLP-1, comparable to the drug sitagliptin. These findings suggest that MLE has great potential to lower blood glucose by inducing GLP-1 secretion via MAPKs and Wnt signaling pathways, positioning it as a promising candidate for alternative diabetes treatment or development as a dietary supplement. Full article

This paper provides a comprehensive phytochemical analysis of extracts obtained from the leaves and roots of Hedysarum semenowii using HPLC/PDA-ESI-QToF/MS-MS techniques. The study identified 53 compounds, with flavones and isoflavones as the primary polyphenols. Notably, flavones were predominant in the leaves, while isoflavones were found mainly in the roots, potentially serving as chemotaxonomic markers. Medicarpin and its glucoside were confirmed in the roots, while mangiferin and its derivatives were identified for the first time in both the roots and leaves. Isoflavones like formononetin, calycosin, and afrormosin, along with their glucosides, were exclusive to the roots. Flavonols such as quercetin and its glycosides were abundant in the aboveground parts. Our study also identified flavones like luteolin, flavanones (naringenin), and chalcones (liquiritigenin) in various parts. Additionally, the phenolic acids gallic and ferulic acids, as well as the organic acids malic and citric acid, were also detected. The extracts demonstrated differential antimicrobial and antifungal activities in a microbroth dilution assay, with the aerial part extracts showing superior efficacy, particularly against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Both aerial and underground parts exhibited comparable antifungal activity against Candida species. Antioxidant activity in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH^•) radical scavenging test varied significantly, with ethanolic extracts from the aerial parts showing the highest potential (Antioxidant Activity Index (AAI) 2.07 ± 0.13). In contrast, root extracts had consistently low antioxidant activity. The results highlight the aerial parts of H. semenowii as a more promising source of biologically active compounds with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties compared to the roots. Full article

Mangiferin (MF), a natural component widely found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs, has garnered increasing attention for its potent antioxidative properties and therapeutic potential. This bioactive xanthone compound plays a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress, which is a key factor in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including liver diseases. As a powerful natural antioxidant, MF exhibits a wide range of hepatoprotective effects, making it a promising candidate for liver disease therapy. In this review, we systematically examine the source and chemical properties, synthetic pathways, pharmacokinetic characteristics, and bioavailability enhancement strategies of MF. Furthermore, we explore its mechanisms of action in treating liver diseases, with a focus on its antioxidative properties and their role in modulating liver disease progression. Given the growing burden of liver disease and the limitations of current therapies, this review aims to promote the clinical application of MF as a therapeutic candidate, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies for liver diseases. Full article

Parasitic infections remain a major global health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings where they are closely tied to poverty and inadequate sanitation. The increasing emergence of drug resistance and the limited accessibility of current therapies highlight the urgent need for novel, safe, and affordable alternatives. Mangifera indica L. (mango), a widely cultivated fruit tree deeply rooted in traditional medicine, has long been used to treat conditions symptomatic of parasitic diseases, including fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. Phytochemical investigations have revealed a rich spectrum of bioactive compounds, notably mangiferin, phenolic compounds and terpenoids, which exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities. This review critically synthesizes evidence on the antiparasitic potential of M. indica against protozoa, such as Plasmodium, Leishmania, Trypanosoma, Toxoplasma gondii, Entamoeba histolytica, and free-living amoebae, as well as helminths. Strongest evidence exists for malaria and helminth infections, where both crude extracts and isolated compounds demonstrated significant activity in vitro and in vivo. Encouraging but limited findings are available for leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis, while data on toxoplasmosis and amoebiasis remain largely speculative. Variations in efficacy across studies are influenced by plant parts and extraction methods, with ethanolic extracts and mangiferin often showing superior results. Despite promising findings, mechanistic studies, standardized methodologies, toxicological evaluations, and clinical trials are scarce. Future research should focus on elucidating molecular mechanisms, exploring synergistic interactions with existing drugs, and leveraging advanced delivery systems to enhance bioavailability. Full article

Objectives: According to published data, mangiferin has the potential to prevent diabetes mellitus. The aim of this work was to obtain in vivo evidence of the biological activity of mangiferin predicted in silico. Methods: A prediction using the IT Microcosm system was employed to identify the correlation between the spatial structure of mangiferin and its biological activity. MAPK10, HCAR2, and CALCRL biotargets were used as the basis for predicting moderate antiglycation activity in silico. The presence of anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities in mangiferin was empirically tested in in vivo models. To assess anti-inflammatory activity in female Sprague–Dawley rats, acute exudative inflammation and chronic proliferative inflammation were induced. To assess hypoglycemic activity in female Sprague–Dawley rats, diabetes mellitus was modeled with an alloxan solution (150.0 mg/kg). During the experiment, fasting body weight, glucose, and total cholesterol concentrations in the blood serum of the animals were assessed weekly. To study hypocholesterolemic activity in female Mus musculus mice, hypercholesterolemia was modeled by administering a solution of Kolliphor P 407 three times a week. Mangiferin (50.0 mg/kg, 100.0 mg/kg) was administered orally daily for 7 days (in the last week of the experiment) or for 14 days (hypercholesterolemia model). Results: In vivo studies showed that mangiferin showed pro-inflammatory activity without affecting body weight and did not reduce glucose and cholesterol concentrations. The obtained results contribute to the evidence regarding the presence/absence of the anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and hypocholesterolemic properties of mangiferin. Conclusions: The discrepancy between mangiferin’s actual activity and the in silico predictions suggests the need for further studies using lower doses of mangiferin and investigating approaches to enhance its bioavailability. Full article

Leaves of Gentiana lutea L., traditionally used for treating heart disorders, represent a sustainable and underutilized source of bitter secoiridoids and xanthones, also found in Gentianae radix—an official herbal drug derived from the same, protected species. As root harvesting leads to the destruction of the plant, using the more readily available leaves could help reduce the pressure on this endangered natural resource. This study aimed to optimize the ultrasound-assisted extraction of the secoiridoid swertiamarin and the xanthone isogentisin from G. lutea leaves using response surface methodology (RSM). Subsequently, the stability of the bioactive compounds (swertiamarin, gentiopicrin, mangiferin, isoorientin, isovitexin, and isogentisin) in the optimized extract was monitored over a 30-day period under different storage conditions. The influence of extraction time (5–65 min), ethanol concentration (10–90% v/v), liquid-to-solid ratio (10–50 mL/g), and temperature (20–80 °C) was analyzed at five levels according to a central composite design. The calculated optimal extraction conditions for the simultaneous maximization of swertiamarin and isogentisin yields were 50 min extraction time, 30% v/v ethanol concentration, 30 mL/g liquid-to-solid ratio, and 62.7 °C extraction temperature. Under these conditions, the experimentally obtained yields were 3.75 mg/g dry weight for swertiamarin and 1.57 mg/g dry weight for isogentisin, closely matching the RSM model predictions. The stability study revealed that low-temperature storage preserved major bioactive compounds, whereas mangiferin stability was compromised by elevated temperature and light exposure. The established models support the production of standardized G. lutea leaf extracts and may facilitate the efficient separation and purification of their bioactive compounds, thereby contributing to the further valorization of this valuable plant material. Full article

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, with all parts of the tree—including leaves—used traditionally to treat diabetes, infections, pain, and other conditions. Mango leaves contain proteins, minerals, vitamins, and phenolic compounds, including mangiferin, quercetin, and kaempferol, whose content varies by cultivar. This study evaluated the functional and bioactive properties of dried mango leaves from five cultivars (Julie, DLO, Nam Dok Mai, Irwin, and Keïtt) to determine their potential for food and nutraceutical applications. Analyses included water- and oil-related parameters, swelling and solubility indices, foaming and emulsifying properties, and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP in hydroalcoholic and water extracts), complemented by FT-IR/ATR spectroscopy. Significant differences between the five analyzed cultivars were observed. Irwin exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (2.65 ± 0.55 mg TE/g DM in DPPH assay), while Nam Dok Mai demonstrated superior foaming capacity (82.69 ± 7.79 mL). Strong correlations (r > 0.9) between reducing sugars and antioxidant capacity suggest cultivar selection based on sugar content could predict antioxidant potential. FT-IR confirmed the presence of polar phenolic and protein compounds. The results demonstrate that mango leaves offer cultivar-dependent functional and antioxidant attributes relevant to food systems. Their targeted valorization may support sustainable industrial applications and circular bioeconomy strategies, particularly in tropical regions where mango cultivation is widespread. Full article

Miraruira is a medicinal plant-based product (MPBP) that is widely used in the state of Amazonas for the treatment of diabetes, though its botanical identity remains unclear, which raises concerns about authenticity and therapeutic consistency. One solution to this problem is the use of mass spectrometry-based approaches, which have emerged as powerful tools for verifying botanical origin based on chemical composition. Thus, to confirm the botanical authenticity of miraruira, direct-injection mass spectrometry (DI-MS) and chemometric analyses (PCA and HCA) were conducted on methanol fractions of Salacia impressifolia and Connarus ruber, both suspected sources of miraruira, as well as commercial samples obtained in street markets in Manaus, Brazil. Additionally, the hexane extracts of C. ruber and the commercial samples were screened for benzoquinones using DI-MS, as these compounds are recurrent in the genus Connarus. The DI-MS and PCA analyses revealed distinct chemical profiles for each species, and identified mangiferin and epicatechin as chemical markers for S. impressifolia and C. ruber, respectively. Furthermore, PCA demonstrated that all the commercial samples exhibited chemical profiles closely aligned with C. ruber. However, the HCA indicated variability among these samples, suggesting C. ruber or related Connarus species are the primary sources of miraruira. Moreover, embelin, rapanone, and suberonone were identified as the main compounds in the hexane extracts of C. ruber and the commercial products. This study successfully confirmed the botanical authenticity of miraruira, identified key bioactive compounds related to its traditional use in the treatment of diabetes symptoms, and demonstrated the effectiveness of DI-MS as a valuable tool for addressing authenticity issues in MPBPs. Full article

The ongoing global threat posed by the influenza A virus, exacerbated by antigenic drift and the emergence of antiviral resistance, accentuates the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Through molecular docking, this study revealed that mangiferin has a strong binding affinity for the active site of the neuraminidase (NA) protein of influenza virus A(H1N1)pdm09, with a binding energy of −8.1 kcal/mol. In vitro assays confirmed a dose-dependent inhibition of NA, with an IC₅₀ of 88.65 μM, and minimal cytotoxicity, as indicated by a CC₅₀ of 328.1 μM in MDCK cells. In murine models, the administration of mangiferin at a dosage of 25 mg/kg significantly mitigated weight loss, decreased viral loads in nasal turbinates and lungs by over 1 log10 TCID₅₀, and enhanced survival rates from 0% in control groups to 20% in mangiferin-treated group at 14 days post-infection. In addition, mangiferin was found to modulate host immune responses by simultaneously inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and TNF-α, and upregulating the expression of anti-inflammatory IL-10 and antiviral IFN-γ, thus mitigating infection-induced inflammation. Our findings elucidate the dual mechanism of mangiferin involving the direct inhibition of NA and immunomodulation, thereby providing experimental evidence for exploring dual-mechanism-based anti-influenza strategies against resistant strains of influenza. Full article

Mangiferin, a polyphenol derived from Mangifera indica, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, positioning it as a promising candidate for applications in medicine. Its potential as an alternative to antibiotics is especially significant in agriculture and medicine, addressing the global demand for non-traditional antibacterial agents. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit its therapeutic use. Polymeric matrices could be one of the potential approaches to solve these problems, enhancing mangiferin’s bioavailability. Each delivery system exhibits unique properties such as controlled release, prolonged action and organ-specific targeting, in an ideal case each directed to specific diseases and administration routes. While promising in vitro and in vivo results highlight their therapeutic potential, challenges remain in the optimization of the matrix formulations for precise applications. Further research is needed to develop these systems and confirm their efficacy in clinical practice. Full article

The Iris genus is known for its large blooms and significant conservation value, as well as its horticultural appeal. There are over 300 species of irises, which are widely distributed across the northern temperate zone. Iris palaestina (Baker) Barbey, commonly known as the Lebanese iris, is an endemic species of the Middle East with limited prior phytochemical research. This study was conducted to examine the metabolomic complexity and chemical profile of the flower extract of I. palaestina using advanced analytical tools. Molecular networking was employed to investigate its chemotaxonomy and phytochemical composition. In silico annotation tools—network annotation propagation (NAP), DEREPLICATOR, and MS2LDA—were applied to identify chemical classes and substructures within the extract. The flower extract of I. palaestina was found to contain diverse metabolite classes, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and lipids, with a total of 15 compounds annotated. Subsequent chromatographic separation yielded four major compounds, identified as the isoflavonoid irigenin, the flavonoid embinin, the xanthone mangiferin, and the lipid N-lauryldiethanolamine. Among these, irigenin and mangiferin exhibited significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, with IC₅₀ values of 32.1 μM and 36.1 μM, respectively. This study provides the first comprehensive metabolomic characterization of I. palaestina, revealing it as a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals spanning multiple metabolite subclasses. These findings emphasize the possible use of I. palaestina for further pharmaceutical investigation and natural product discovery. Full article

Currently, multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria are a global problem, which requires modern approaches and effective pharmaceutical agents. Substances isolated from nature sources have a strong potential in combating highly virulent and antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, including within the ESKAPE group (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.). One of these substances is mangiferin, the bioactive compound obtained from parts of Mangiferin indica L. Mangiferin has a low aqueous solubility, which causes low activity and requires additional modification or delivery system to increase its concentration in the cell. Many studies show that it has multiple biological effects and can be used as an antioxidant or an anticancer agent, and it can exhibit antibacterial properties. Extracts obtained from plant parts show high efficacy in low doses against the ESKAPE group and other strains. This makes mangiferin a possible candidate as a strong agent against bacterial infections. The mechanisms underlying the action of mangiferin on bacterial cells are poorly understood. This review summarizes studies confirming the antibacterial properties of mangiferin both in its native form and using delivery systems. Full article

Coffee cascara is an underutilized byproduct of coffee processing that has the potential for value-added applications due to its rich phytochemical content and antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to characterize the phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of coffee cascara sourced from seven geographic regions, and where possible, a variety of farms in different regions. We compared two different extraction methods: hot water/sonication-assisted extraction and methanol–water extraction to generate phytochemical content. The antioxidant capacity of extracts was assessed through different assays. Correlations between phytochemical compounds and different antioxidant activities were analyzed first using Pearson’s correlations and then substantiated further using principal component analysis (PCA). The dominant phytochemicals identified in the extracted coffee cascara included gallic acid, chlorogenic acid isomers, mangiferin, protocatechuic acid and rutin. Among the water-extracted samples, the Brazil sample exhibited the highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value, whereas the Zambia sample had the highest 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) value and the Laos sample showed the greatest inhibition of 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence. For methanol extracts, the highest ORAC and ABTS values were from the Indonesia sample, and the Laos sample showed the strongest inhibition of DCFH-DA fluorescence. The results show the distinct phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of coffee cascara according to geographical clustering using PCA. Specifically, gallic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and to a lesser extent rutin correlated (p < 0.05) with ABTS and DCFH-DA assays. This study revealed significant variation in the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of coffee cascara across different geographic regions; less so with different farms associated with the location. The findings offer evidence for potential upscaling of coffee cascara waste for use in value-added functional food or nutraceutical applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: A mango (Mangifera indica) leaf extract (Zynamite^®), rich in the polyphenol mangiferin, has been demonstrated to modulate brain activity, boost cognitive function, and reduce mental fatigue. Research evidence supports that improving the solubility of this extract could significantly enhance its efficacy as an active ingredient. This study examined the effects of a soluble version of Zynamite^®, Zynamite^® S (Zyn-S), on cognitive function and mood in young adults at low doses. Methods: A total of 119 university students were enrolled in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 100 mg, 150 mg, or placebo in a double-blind crossover design. Short- and long-term memory were evaluated using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), executive functions with the Trail Making Test (TMT), processing speed with the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and selective attention with the Stroop Color and Word Test. Additionally, mood was assessed using the Spanish short version of the Profile of Mood States (POMS). All these assessments were conducted before taking the product and at 30 min, 3 h, and 5 h post-intake. Results: The results demonstrated that participants who received Zynamite^® S experienced significant improvements in reduced tension, depression, and confusion, suggesting an enhancement in mental clarity and overall emotional well-being. Both interventions also improved processing speed and cognitive flexibility. However, no significant differences were observed in short- and long-term verbal memory. Conclusions: In summary, these findings support Zynamite^® S as a natural nootropic capable of acutely improving key cognitive functions and emotional balance at low doses in young adults, with sustained efficacy for at least five hours. Full article